Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: Lace Up for Kids 2024

 

Every year, over 400,000 children worldwide receive the heart-wrenching diagnosis of cancer. This staggering number reminds us of the crucial need for continued awareness, research, and support. This September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we invite you to join Solving Kids’ Cancer’s Lace Up for Kids program and make a difference. Together, we can shine a light on the realities of childhood cancer and emphasize the importance of life-saving research.

What is Lace Up for Kids?

Lace Up for Kids is more than just a campaign; it’s a movement! Launched in 2017, this initiative has united communities across the globe to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research. By simply swapping your regular shoelaces for our special gold laces, you can show your support and help drive change. The power of this program lies in its simplicity and the heartfelt commitment of individuals like you.

How to Participate in Lace Up for Kids

Getting involved in Lace Up for Kids is fun and easy! Follow these three simple steps to make a big impact:

Step 1: Care

First, register for Lace Up for Kids and create your personal childhood cancer fundraiser page. This is your opportunity to share your story, set your fundraising goal, and show why this cause matters to you. It’s quick and easy, and your dedication helps spread awareness.

Step 2: Wear

Once you’ve registered, keep an eye on your mailbox for your gold shoelaces. When they arrive, swap out your regular laces and go gold for childhood cancer throughout September. Each step you take with those laces on your shoes represents a step towards a brighter future for children with cancer.

Step 3: Share

Now it’s time to spread the word! Share your fundraising page with friends, family, and your social media network. Use the hashtag #CareWearShare to connect with others participating in the campaign. Your voice can inspire others to join the cause and amplify our message.

Lace Up for Kids by the Numbers

Since its inception, Lace Up for Kids has made a remarkable impact thanks to the dedication of supporters like you. Here’s a look at what we’ve achieved together:

• 150,000 pairs of gold laces worn in all 50 U.S. states.

• Over 250 schools, sports teams, and youth organizations involved.

• Participants from 20 countries around the world.

• Over $250,000 raised for breakthrough treatment options for childhood cancer.

 

Other Ways to Get Involved in Lace Up for Kids

Looking to take your involvement to the next level? Here are some exciting ways you can make an even bigger impact:

Register as a Team Captain

Invite your friends and family to join your fundraising efforts. Together, you can create a powerful team dedicated to fighting childhood cancer.

Get Your Sports Team Involved

Order laces in bulk for your entire sports team. Whether you play baseball, basketball, cheer, or football, your team can wear gold laces to show solidarity and raise funds.

Get Your School To Go Gold for Childhood Cancer

Host an informational table at your school to share more about Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and the Lace Up for Kids program. Encourage your classmates to participate and raise awareness together.

Smithtown’s Success Story

Smithtown, NY shines brightly in the fight against childhood cancer. At Nesaquake Middle School, principal Dan and his team transform the school into a sea of gold shoelaces every September. With 500 students proudly wearing gold, the highlight is a “Go Gold” day filled with fun fundraising booths.

Meanwhile, at Accompsett Elementary School, principal Tim leads the “Change Childhood Cancer” campaign, where students bring in spare change, raising over $1,500! The school buzzes with creativity and community spirit as students wear their gold laces in unique ways – in their hair, as bracelets, and even as creative shoelace art on their backpacks.

“Smithtown is a very generous community.  Our Lace Up for Kids fundraiser empowers our young students to be philanthropic and teaches them the important lesson that you can achieve great things by working together. Whether kids bring in a handful of pennies or a twenty-dollar bill they are able to participate in the fight against childhood cancer.” 

-Timothy Hellmuth, Principal, Accompsett Elementary School 

Unite your school or classroom like Smithtown, NY! Join the Lace Up for Kids campaign this September. Register, wear your gold shoelaces, and help us fund critical cancer research.

FAQs About Lace Up for Kids

What is Lace Up for Kids?
Lace Up for Kids is a fundraising and awareness campaign by Solving Kids’ Cancer. Participants wear gold shoelaces in September to support childhood cancer research.

How can I get involved?
You can register, fundraise, wear gold laces, and share your efforts on social media.

Where do the funds go?
Funds raised support breakthrough treatment options for pediatric cancer.

Who can participate in Lace Up for Kids?
Anyone can participate! We encourage individuals, families, schools, sports teams, and community organizations to join the cause.

How do I register for Lace Up for Kids?
You can register on our website by filling out a simple form. Once registered, you will receive a fundraising page to share with your network.

When will I receive my gold shoelaces?
After registering, you will receive your gold shoelaces in the mail. Delivery times may vary, so please allow up to two weeks for shipping.

Can I order gold shoelaces in bulk?
Yes, you can order gold shoelaces in bulk for your team, school, or organization. Contact our support team for bulk orders and discounts.

What are some fundraising ideas?
Fundraising ideas include hosting a bake sale, organizing a charity run or walk, setting up a donation drive, and using social media to spread the word and gather support.

How do I share my fundraising page?
You can share your fundraising page via email, social media, and word of mouth. Use the hashtag #CareWearShare to join the online conversation.

How do I track my fundraising progress?
Your fundraising page will have a built-in tracker to monitor donations and progress towards your goal. You will receive notifications as contributions are made.

Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, donations to Solving Kids’ Cancer are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Donors will receive a receipt for their contribution.

Can I donate without participating in the Lace Up for Kids program?
Absolutely! You can make a direct donation on our website to support childhood cancer research.

What should I do if I have not received my laces?
If you haven’t received your gold shoelaces within two weeks of registering, please contact our support team for assistance.

How can my school or sports team get involved?
Your school or sports team can participate by registering as a group, ordering gold shoelaces in bulk, and organizing fundraising events. Hosting an awareness event or sharing information about childhood cancer are also great ways to get involved.

Ready to Join Us?

This September, let’s make a GOLD statement for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Show the world our dedication to supporting childhood cancer patients and their families, and our commitment to finding new and innovative treatment options — because every kid deserves to grow up.